Smashing Times Bilingual March Newsletter: Mná agus an Ghaeilge | Women and the Irish Language

Fáiltigí go heagrán Mhárta 2024 de Nuachtlitir Smashing Times. Ag cur san áireamh gur thárla Lá Idirnáisiúnta na mBan (8 Márta) agus Seachtain na Gaeilge (1–17 Márta) níos luaithe sa mhí, is é téama an leagain seo ná ‘Mná agus an Ghaeilge’. Mar sin, tá an nuachtlitir dátheangach, ag úsáid an Bhéarla i dteannta leis an nGaeilge. Sa roinn Art Inspires, darbh ainm Tintreach don eagrán seo (focal a léiríonn suaithinseacht na healaíne), táimid ag díriú ar shaothar na mban. Ina theannta sin, is trí Ghaeilge atá na saothair scríofa ar fad.

Tá mná ag scríobh sa Ghaeilge le breis agus míle bliain; bhí an file Uallach ingen Muinecháin (a d’éag sa bhliain 934), as Corca Dhuibhne i gCiarraí, mar shampla, ina Phríomh-Olllam Éireann (file nó bard na litríochta agus na staire). Níl ach beagáinín eolais ar Uallach ná ar a cuid oibre ar fáil, áfach, agus ar an drochuair, lean an treocht sin ar feadh na gcéadta bliain ina dhiaidh sin. Murab ionann agus a gcomhghleacaithe fireann, is annamh a fuair scríbhneoirí ban an leibhéal céanna aitheantais, rud a chuir isteach ar chumas fad saoil a saothar.

I measc na bhfigiúirí suntasacha a ndearnadh doiciméadú orthu, agus a aithníodh níos déanaí, tá an tuireamhaí Caitilin Dubh ón 17ú haois (bunaithe i gCondae an Chláir sa lá atá inniu ann); Ciarraíoch Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill (c. 1743–c. 1800), aintín Dhónaill Uí Chonaill, a scríobh an dán iomráiteach Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire; Máire Bhuí Ní Laoghaire (1774–c. 1848), as Condae Chorcaí, nach raibh in ann a scríobh ná a léamh, ach a chuir a cuid filíochta in iúl mar chuid de thraidisiún béil; agus Peig Sayers (1873–1958), seanchaí as Ciarraí agus údar an leabhair Peig. Cé gur tháinig an Béarla chun cinn in áit na Gaeilge mar phríomhtheanga na hÉireann go luath sa 19ú haois, lean go leor ban orthu ag scríobh sa teanga dhúchais, leis na filí Máire Mhac an tSaoi, Caitlín Maude, agus Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill i measc na gcleachtóirí ba mhó cáil sa chéad seo caite.

Léigh ar aghaidh le haghaidh dánta ó Phríomhealaíontóir Dairena Ní Chinnéide, chomh maith le saothair ó Áine Ní Ghlinn, Amna Walayat, Celia de Fréine, agus Julie Breathnach-Banwait. I measc téamaí a saothar ná an Ghaeilge, an teanga, an bhanúlacht, agus an fhéiniúlacht. Áirítear thíos freisin Deontais agus Deiseanna, Deichniúr Thar Barr, nuacht, agus go leor eile.

A photo of Corca Dhuibhne in Kerry, showing cliffside steps in the foreground, and sea, islands, and twilight in the background.

Corca Dhuibhne (The Dingle Peninsula), árbh as don file Uallach ingen Muinecháin. Grianghraf: Coláistí Chorca Dhuibhne

Welcome to the March 2024 edition of the Smashing Times Newsletter. Considering that both International Women’s Day (8 March) and Seachtain na Gaeilge (1–17 March) took place earlier this month, our theme is ‘Women and the Irish Language’. As such, the newsletter is bilingual, combining English and Irish. In the Art Inspires section, which for this edition we are naming Tintreach (the Irish for ‘lightning’, reflecting the striking nature of art), we are showcasing the work of women. Furthermore, all written work is through Irish.

Women have been writing in the Irish language for over a millennium; the poet Uallach ingen Muinecháin (died 934), from Corca Dhuibhne in Kerry, for example, served as Chief Ollam of Ireland (a poet or bard of literature and history). Very little is known of Uallach and her work, however, and this trend unfortunately continued in the ensuing centuries. Unlike their male colleagues, women writers rarely received the same level of acknowledgement, hampering the potential for the longevity of their work.

Notable figures whose works were documented, and later recognised, include the 17^th-century elegist Caitilin Dubh (based in modern-day Clare); Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill (c. 1743–c. 1800), from Kerry, who wrote the celebrated Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire and aunt of Daniel O’Connell; Máire Bhuí Ní Laoghaire (1774–c. 1848), from County Cork, who couldn’t read or write, and who delivered her poetry as part of an oral tradition; and Kerry’s Peig Sayers (1873–1958), seanchaí and author of Peig. Though English overtook Irish as Ireland’s dominant language in the early 19^th century, many women continued to write in the native tongue, with the poets Máire Mhac an tSaoi, Caitlín Maude, and Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill among the most acclaimed practitioners of the past century.

Read on for poems by Featured Artist Dairena Ní Chinnéide, as well as artworks by Áine Ní Ghlinn, Amna Walayat, Celia de Fréine, and Julie Breathnach-Banwait. Their themes include the Irish language, language in general, womanhood, and identity. Also included below are Grants and Opportunities, 10 We Admire, news, and more.

Sleachta | Quotes

‘. . . ní Ifreann / go hIfreann / iar-Neimhe’ (‘There is no hell like the hell that comes after heaven’)
– Caitlín Maude (1941-1982), ‘Impí’

‘Faigheann cos ar siúl rud nach bhfaigheann cos ina cónaí.’ (‘A walking foot comes upon something that a resting foot wouldn’t.’)
– Seanfhocal (Irish proverb)

‘. . . is chuimhníos ansan / ar an mbáisteach bhíoblúil / a fhliuch do choinsias / ar tairseach na dúile’ (‘And I remembered then / the biblical rain / that lashed your conscience / at the doorway of desire’)
– Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh (rugadh 1984), ‘Bhís dom’ thiomáint cois trá’

Moltaí | Recommended

Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire le hEibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill
The Lament for Art O’Leary by Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill

Saothar clasaiceach litríocht na Gaeilge is ea Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire. Cumtha ag Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill go díreach i ndiaidh bhás a fir chéile Art Ó Laoghaire in 1773, mhair sé sa traidisiún béil go dtí gur bailíodh ar deireadh é sa 19ú haois ón mbean chaointe phroifisiúnta Nóra Ní Shíndile as Contae Chorcaí, a fuair bás sa bhliain 1873 i seanaois mhór. Le ham, tháinig an caoineadh chunn cinn go lárnach i gcanóin litríocht na Gaeilge, áit ar fhan sé. Ag teacht chun cinn ón téacs mar bhanlaoch fíochmhar, uasal, rómánsúil Ghaelach, tá samhlaíocht glúinte léitheoirí gafa ag Ní Chonaill. Cliceáil ar an gcnaipe thuas chun féachaint ar leagan gearrscannáin den dán, cruthaithe ag Coláiste na hOllscoile Corcaigh.

The Lament for Art O’Leary is a classic work of Irish literature. Composed as a keen by Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill in the immediate aftermath of her husband Art O’Leary’s death in 1773, it survived in oral tradition until it was finally collected in the 19th century from the professional keener Nóra Ní Shíndile from County Cork, who died in 1873 in extreme old age. The lament became central to an evolving canon of Irish-language literature, where it has remained. Emerging from the text as a fiery, aristocratic, Gaelic romantic heroine, Ní Chonaill has captured the imagination of generations of readers. Click on the play button above to watch University College Cork’s short film version of the poem.

Na Peirsigh le hAeschylus, aistrithe ag Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill
Persians by Aeschylus, translated by Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill

Freastail ar Na Peirsigh/Persians ag Amharclann na Mainistreach, aistriúchán spleodrach Gaeilge ar shárshaothar Gréagach Aeschylus leis an scríbhneoir agus file Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill. Tugann an dráma seo peirspictíocht uathúil ar an stair, ag tabhairt cuireadh do lucht féachana ionbhá a bheith acu leis an taobh caillte de bhua iontach na Gréige. Le fotheidil Bhéarla chomhtháite, cuireann an léiriúchán seo, a bheidh ar siúl go dtí an 6 Aibreán, deis iontach ar fáil chun dul i ngleic leis an dráma is sine san Eoraip atá ar marthain, i gceann de na teangacha labhartha is sine dá cuid. Á stiúradh ag Conor Hanratty. Cliceáil anseo chun áirithint a dhéanamh.

Experience Na Peirsigh/Persians at the Abbey Theatre, a riveting Irish-language translation of Aeschylus’ ancient Greek masterpiece by the writer and poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill. This play offers a unique perspective on history, inviting audiences to empathise with the losing side of a surprising Greek victory. With integrated English subtitles and a rich design by Maree Kearns, this production, which runs until 6 April, provides a thrilling opportunity to engage with Europe’s oldest known surviving play in one of its oldest spoken languages. Directed by Conor Hanratty. Click here to book.

Book cover of An Triail by Máiréad Ní Ghráda, depicting shadows on a wall of a lone woman and a number of men watching her.

An Triail le Máiréad Ní Ghráda
An Triail by Máiréad Ní Ghráda

Is dráma suntasach é An Triail (1964) le Máiréad Ní Ghráda, a bhí ina file, drámadóir, agus craoltóir. Suite in Éirinn sna 1960idí, pléann sé le haistear corraitheach Máire Ní Chathasaigh, bean óg a bhíonn ag plé le dúshláin an toirchis agus an mháithreachais aonair. I measc téamaí an dráma tá breithiúnas sochaíoch, moráltacht, agus fírinne lom saol na mban i sochaí choimeádach na hÉireann. Is sampla cumhachtach é mianach Máire agus a dúshlán in aghaidh norm sochaíoch de ghníomhaireacht agus cumasú na mban.

An Triail (1964) by Máiréad Ní Ghráda, poet, playwright, and broadcaster, is a timeless play set in 1960s Ireland. It delves into the tumultuous journey of Máire Ní Chathasaigh, a young woman dealing with the challenges of pregnancy and single motherhood. The play navigates themes of societal judgment, morality, and the harsh realities faced by women in conservative Irish society. Ní Ghráda’s portrayal of Máire’s resilience and defiance against societal norms is a powerful example of female agency and empowerment.

Tintreach

Poet Dairena Ní Chinnéide, in dark attire, looks to her right, while in the background choppy seas crash against rocks.

Grianghrafadóir: Jan O’Connell

Príomhealaíontóir/Featured Artist: Dairena Ní Chinnéide

Is í Dairena Ní Chinnéide Príomhealaíontóir na míosa seo. File sa dá theanga í. I measc 11 cnuasach filíochta atá folsithe aici tá Tairseach (Éabhlóid, 2021), Fé Gheasa : Spellbound (Arlen House, 2016), deleted (Salmon Poetry, 2019), agus Teacht Aniar – Meascra Dánta 2004-2024, le teacht ó Éabhlóid i mí Dheireadh Fómhair 2024. Tá sí ina Scríbhneoir Cónaithe faoi láthair don eagraíocht teanga agus cultúir Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne. Tabhair cuairt ar a suíomh gréasáin anseo.

Is iad na trí dhán atá foilsithe againn ag Dairena ná ‘Máthair na Cruinne’, ‘Punk na Teangan’, agus ‘Teanga Dhúchais’. I measc na dtéamaí atá iontu tá an Ghaeilge, bagairt, agus dúshlán. Foilsíodh bunleaganacha na ndánta uilig thíos i dTairseach, agus is saothar an údair féin iad na leaganacha Béarla.

Dairena Ní Chinnéide, who writes in both Irish and English, is our Featured Artist this month. Among the 11 collections of poetry she has published are Tairseach (Éabhlóid, 2021), Fé Gheasa : Spellbound (Arlen House, 2016), deleted (Salmon Poetry, 2019), and Teacht Aniar – Meascra Dánta 2004-2024, to be published by Éabhlóid in October 2024. She is currently Writer-in-Residence for the language and culture organisation Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne. Visit her website here.

The three poems by Dairena we have included are ‘Mother Earth’, ‘The Linguistic Punk’, and ‘Native Tongue’. Among their themes are the Irish language, threat, and defiance. All of the original versions of the poems below were published in Tairseach, while the English versions are the work of the author herself.

Máthair na Cruinne

Réabtar an talamh
fenar gcosa
silleann rabharta fuil dhearg ó ghág cloiche
lorg na faille creimnithe cleite éin fánach
céasta ar an gcré
caoineann an chruinne
a cás
liodán fada
fé lá an Luain
go dtiocfadh leigheas
líon lán mé
ná loisc mo chuid crannaíocha ná leag m’anamsa go talamh síolraigh ál na maitheasa
bua na baineannachta
máthair na gealaí
grásta na gréine buí
éirigí amach
i gcoinnibh easpa tola
lig liú
lig béic
ná lig sinn i gcathú ceol binn an athfháis ag cuisliú
mar a bheadh sruthán síol ag péacadh
i nglé glan grá
taoide lán ag trá.

Mother Earth

The earth is ripped
beneath our feet
spring tides of blood red flow
from cracks of stone
traces of eroded cliffs
stray bird feathers
crucified on the earth
the universe grieves
her case
long litanies
of doom
waiting for healing
fill me whole
do not burn my trees
nor lay my soul in the ground
breed a brood of goodness
the gift of femininity
mother of moon
grace of a yellow sun
rise up
against a lack of will
scream
and shout
and lead us from temptation
with the sweet sound of rebirth
pulsating
like a stream
a sprouting seed
the clarity of love
like a full tide turning

A cloudy, orange sunrise or sunset, with a dark silhouetted forest in the foreground.

Grianghrafadóir: Fabien TWB

Punk na Teangan

Thuirling punk ar thalamh na hÉireann
ina ceannairceach, cleitearnach
a cleití, dearg le fearg
spící a gruaige guagach
i gcoinnimh tréigint na teangan
árdaíonn sí le gáirliúir
a buataisí dubha doc dána:
dúisigí, dúisigí a chairde Gael
tá teanga na Gaelainne i mbaol
do shliocht ár sleachta deinimis beart
í labhairt go hárd, ó neart go neart.

The Linguistic Punk

A punk landed on the island of Ireland
in mutinous fluttering
her feathers red with fury
her spiky volatile hair
raged against language loss
she raised a war cry
in her doc martin boots:
wake up, wake up, my Gaelic friends
with the Irish language, make amends
to our children’s children let us say
we speak it so it never slips away.

Teanga Dhúchais

Braithim í
cogar chuisle
a ritheann tríom
braithim lúb na bhfocal briathra na dtreabh
a labhrann teanga ár sínsear míníonn sí í féin ionainn chomh réidh le hanáil
is braistint éirí gréine boladh na beatha
braithim rian teangan
ná’ fuil míniú agam uirthi ach go bhfuil sí ann
mar braithim í.

Native Tongue

I feel her
a whispery pulse
rocketing through me
I feel the bend of sound
the words of the tribe
who speak
the language of our ancestors
she explains herself as readily as breath
the feeling of dawn rising
the scent of the living
I feel a trace of language
I can’t quite explain
but she is there
because I can feel her.

Writer Áine Ní Ghlinn stands, smiling, in front of an off-white wall, wearing glasses, silver earrings and necklace, and black clothing.

‘Droim mo Mháthar’ le hÁine Ní Ghlinn

Is cuimhin liom í is an taos á fhuinneadh is á fháscadh
aici. A droim i gcónaí linn is í ag obair léi sa chistin.

Císte á chur san oigheann. Gualainn bágúin ag dul isteach
sa phota ar an sorn. Prátaí á scamhadh sa bhuicéad stáin.

Is cuimhin liom sleamhnú isteach ina leaba is mé sceimhlithe
i ndiaidh tromluí. Í iompaithe uaim is a haghaidh le balla.

Nuair a fuaireamar an teilifíseán shuíodh sí beagáinín beag
chun tosaigh orainn le bheith níos giorra don scáileán.

Agus í sa chónra rinne mé a haghaidh a iniúchadh ach chuaigh
sé sa mhuileann orm í a aithint.

Foilsíodh an dán seo cheana sa chnuasach Rúin Oscailte (Coiscéim, 2021).

File agus scríbhneoir do pháistí í Áine Ní Ghlinn. Tá 38 leabhar foilsithe aici agus bhí sí ina Laureate na nÓg 2020–2023. Cliceáil anseo dá suíomh gréasáin.

‘My Mother’s Back’ by Áine Ní Ghlinn

I remember her kneading and turning the dough
at the kitchen table, her back to us always.

Putting a cake into the oven. A shoulder of bacon
into the pot. Peeling potatoes into a tin bucket.

I remember slipping into her bed, haunted by a
nightmare. Her back to me, facing the wall.

When we got the television set, she’d sit forward
in front of us all, to be close to the screen.

When I saw her laid out in her coffin, I studied every
inch of her face but had no idea who she was.

This poem was previously published in Rúin Oscailte (Coiscéim, 2021).

Áine Ní Ghlinn is a poet and children’s writer. She has 38 books published and was Ireland’s Children’s Literature Laureate 2020–2023. Click here for her website.

Visual artist Amna Walayat faces the camera to her right, her hair tied up.

Grianghrafadóir: Amna Walayat

Féinphortráid le Teanga Ilteangach le hAmna Walayat

Cruthaíodh Féinphortráid le Teanga Ilteangach le hAmna Walayat, le feiceáil thíos, in 2023 don 40ú Coimisiún Ardán Idirnáisiúnta EVA, ag tabhairt freagra ar théama na saoránachta. Sa saothar seo, thug Walayat chuig an téama ó pheirspictíocht phearsanta, ag tabhairt aghaidhe ar a staid mar ealaíontóir le déshaoránacht. Léiríonn an obair an tstreachailt a bhí aici leis an mbacainn teanga a bhí le sárú aici le linn phróiseas an oiriúnaithe agus an chomhtháthaithe san Eoraip, streachailt a bhí idir lámha ag go leor saoránach díláithrithe. Ina focail féin, ‘Braithim féin, ar nós go leor daoine eile, gur duine ón taobh amuigh mé nach bhfuil in ann teacht go hiomlán ar spiorad an chultúir de bharr easpa líofachta sa teanga. Thagair Edward Said don stát seo mar a bheith i do “dhílleachta spioradálta”.’ Tá an saothar ealaíne seo ar taispeáint faoi láthair ag Ionad Ealaíne an Duga, Liatroim.

Amharcealaíontóir a rugadh sa Phacastáin í Amna Walayat atá lonnaithe i gCorcaigh. Díríonn a saothar ar mhionphéinteáil thraidisiúnta agus nua-Ind-Peirsis. Cliceáil anseo dá próifíl Instagram.

This artwork depicts a woman with a long snake-like tongue protruding from her mouth and wrapping around her neck. She is set in a blue oval within a brown-orange rectangle, which in turn is placed in paper-like rectangles with intricate and swirling designs.

Uiscedhath, gouache, nigh tae, líocha cré, pinn luaidhe, marmair, agus ór 22-carat ar pháipéar wasli. 35 x 49 cm (imill neamhrialta)
2023

Watercolour, gouache, tea wash, earth pigments, pencils, marbling, and 22-carat gold on wasli paper. 35 x 49 cm (irregular edges)
2023

Self-Portrait with a Multilingual Tongue by Amna Walayat

Self-Portrait with a Multilingual Tongue by Amna Walayat, seen above was produced in 2023 for the EVA International 40th Platform Commission, responding to the theme of citizenship. In this work, Walayat approached the theme from a personal perspective, addressing her position as an artist with dual citizenship. The work reflects her struggle with the language barrier which she faced during the process of adaptation and integration in Europe, a struggle shared by many displaced citizens. In her own words, ‘I, like many others, feel as though I am an outsider unable to fully access the spirit of the culture due to a lack of fluency in the language. Edward Said referred to this state as being “spiritually orphaned”.’ This artwork is currently on display at The Dock Art Centre, Leitrim.

Amna Walayat is a Cork-based, Pakistani-born visual artist. Her work focuses on traditional and neo-Indo-Persian miniature painting. Click here for her Instagram profile.

Writer Celia de Fréine stands on a harbour while wearing a coat and sunglasses.

Sliocht as an Dráma Luíse le Celia de Fréine

Sliocht é seo as an drama Luíse, le Celia de Fréine, bunaithe ar shaol Louise Gavan Duffy, a léirigh Umbrella Theatre Company, i gcomhar le Ranelagh Arts Festival agus Imram Féile Litríochta Gaeilge, i Scoil Bhríde in 2016 agus 2017.

Cho-bhunaigh Luíse Ghabhánach Ní Dhufaigh Scoil Bhríde, an chéad ghaelscoil sa Ghalltacht, in 1917. Ise a chuir tús le gluaiseacht na gaelscolaíochta agus coincheap an tumoideachais.

Radharc 3

Tá Luíse naoi mbliana déag d’aois, í tar éis cos a leagan ar a fód dúchais den chéad uair, corp a hathar, Charles Gavan Duffy á thionlacan go Reilig Glas Naíon.

Luíse: An lá dar gcionn agus mé ag spaisteoireacht síos Sráid Uí Chonaill, tugaim foirgneamh faoi deara. Áras Chonradh na Gaeilge. Isteach liom:

‘Go mbeannaí Dia daoibh! Is mise Louise Gavan Duffy.’

Cruinníonn scata mórthimpeall orm. Fir a bhfuil féasóga fada orthu. Mná óga.

Mar a bheidís ag croitheadh láimhe léi:

‘A Iníon Ghabhánach Uí Dhufaigh, ní maith liom do thrioblóid.’
‘Is trua liom do chás.’
‘Fear uasal ab ea é.’
‘Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.’

‘A Iníon Ghabhánach Uí Dhufaigh’ – an chéad uair dom m’ainm a chlos ráite i nGaeilge! Tá mé chomh brónach sin. Agus tá áthas orm. Ar bhraith tú mar sin riamh? Brónach agus áthasach ag an am céanna? Conas is féidir liom na daoine seo a fhreagairt?

‘Go raibh maith agaibh.’ Braithim náire faoin gcaoi a bhfuaimníonn mo chuid Gaeilge. Mo bhlas uafásach. Nár thuigeas a bhí chomh hainnis sin go gcloisim Gaeilge á labhairt den chéad uair. Ag daoine eile. Ach is liomsa an Ghaeilge. Gheallas dom féin go bhfoghlaimeoinn í. Go nglacfainn seilbh uirthi.

Insíonn siad dom faoin obair a bhíonn idir lámha acu. Faoi na coláistí samhraidh. Faoi na ranganna. Faoi conas a théann na múinteoirí fud fad na tíre ar rothair. Chuig gach baile is gach sráidbhaile. Gach paróiste. Ag teagasc na Gaeilge do mhná agus d’fhir. Faoi cé chomh lán is atá na ranganna. Agus na céilithe a bhíonn acu – rince Gaelach. Ní mian liom gilleadh ar an bhFrainc. Is mian liom fanacht i mo thír dhúchais. Is mian liom mo theanga dhúchais a labhairt. Is mian liom…

Ach ní minic a fhaighimid a bhfuil uainn. Glacann sé am. Is gá dúinn a bheith foighneach. Nílim ach naoi mbliana déag d’aois. Níl a fhios agam cad atá i ndán dom. Cá mbeidh cónaí orm? Tá mo dheartháireacha ar scoil ag Stonyhurst i Sasana. Cad a tharlóidh dár n-árasán i Nice? B’fhéidir go dteastóidh ó mo dheirfiúracha Susan, Harriet agus Geraldine filleadh ar an Astráil, áit inar fhás siad aníos. Tá an oiread nithe éiginnte os mo chomhair amach ach tá rud amháin soiléir: níl aon oideachas foirmeálta agam; níl aon cháilíochtaí agam; ní bhfuaireas traenáil d’aon phost. Fós féin, ní theastaíonn uaim go mbeadh orm brath ar aon duine.

Ach, anois díreach, tá mé ró-óg aon chinntí faoin todhchaí a dhéanamh. Níl an dara rogha agam ach filleadh ar an bhFrainc. Croíbhriste, téim ar bhord na loinge.

Scríobhann Celia de Fréine in iliomad seánraí i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla. As Contae an Dúin ó dhúchas í. Caitheann sí seal den bhliain i mBaile Átha Cliath agus seal i gConamara. Tabhair cuairt ar a suíomh gréasáin anseo.

Extract From the Play Luíse by Celia de Fréine

This is an extract from the play Luíse, by Celia de Fréine, based on the life of Louise Gavan Duffy, which was produced by Umbrella Theatre Company, in association with Ranelagh Arts Festival and Imram Féile Litríochta Gaeilge, in Scoil Bhríde in 2016 in 2017.

Louise Gavan Duffy co-founded Scoil Bhríde, the first Gaelscoil, outside the Gaeltacht, in 1917. She began the Gaelscoil movement and developed the concept of tumoideachas (a method of immersion education through which, in this case, Irish is taught).

This extract is translated by the author herself.

Scene 3

Louise, nineteen years of age, has just arrived in Ireland for the first time, to accompany the body of her father, Charles Gavan Duffy to Glasnevin Cemetery.

Louise: The next day, while strolling down O’Connell Street, I notice a building. The headquarters of the Gaelic League. I go in:

‘God bless you! I am Louise Gavan Duffy.’

A crowd gathers around me. Men with long beards. Young women.

As though to shake hands with her:

‘A Iníon Ghabhánach Uí Dhufaigh, we’re sorry for your loss.’
‘Condolences.’
‘He was a noble man.’
‘We’ll never see his likes again.’

‘A Iníon Ghabhánach Uí Dhufaigh’ – the first time I hear my name spoken in Irish! I am so sad. And happy. Have you ever felt like that? Sad and happy at the same time? How shall I answer these people?

‘Thank you.’ I feel ashamed of how my Irish sounds. My awful accent. I hadn’t realised how bad it was until I hear Irish spoken for the first time. By others. But the language is mine. I promised myself I would learn it. And own it.

The people in the Gaelic League tell me about the work they do. About the summer colleges. The classes. How teachers travel the length and breadth of the country on bicycles. To every town and village. Every parish. Teaching Irish to men and women. About how full the classes are. And the céilís they organise – Irish dancing. I don’t want to go back to France. I want to stay in my native country. I want to learn my native language. I want to…

But we don’t often get what we want. It takes time. We must be patient. I am only nineteen years of age. I don’t know what’s in store for me. Where will I live. My brothers are at school in Stonyhurst in England. What will happen to our apartment in Nice? Perhaps my sisters Susan, Harriet and Geraldine will want to return to Australia where they grew up. So much uncertainty lies ahead but one thing is clear: I have no formal education; no qualifications; I haven’t trained for any position. And, yet, I don’t want to have to depend on anyone.

Right now I am too young to make any decisions about my future. I have no choice but to return to France. With a heavy heart, I board ship.

Celia de Fréine writes in many genres in Irish and English. She was born in Newtownards, County Down, and now divides her time between Dublin and Connemara. Visit her website here.

In this black-and-white image, writer Julie Breathnach-Banwait stands in front of a white wall, wearing a black t-shirt.

‘Maidin nach mbeidh ar nós aon mhaidin eile’ le Julie Breathnach-Banwait

Maidin a bheas ann, is dóigh, is aireoidh tú i do phutóga é, ag guairneáil, á chur féin in aithne, á chur féin faoi chomaoin i do chuideachta is os do chomhair. Agus is leat féin do chorp arís.

Sula nglacfar anáil, beidh tú giallghlasta balbh i gcath is do theanga casta i snaidhm chúng an chiúnais. Is scoiltfear an t-urlár, critheanna talúna beaga ag pléascadh is ag brúchtadh, ag cruthú iomairí fút go sciorrfadh tú síos i ndomhan atá geal agus dúr, ina bhfuil an bán agus an dubh. Is isteach trí bhearnaí na créafóige a shúfar aer, tógfaidh tú lán do bhéil chun do bheocht á choimeád is tú féin a dhíriú. Is déanfaidh tú sliobarnail ar rinn na haille. Crochta le barr do mhéire.

Is beidh do chorp trí thine. Déanfaidh do chliabhrach bagairt go bpléascfaidh sé. Is déanfaidh do chosa seabhrán le fuinneamh. Cuirfidh siad iachall ort siúl, cuirfidh siad iachall ort gluaiseacht. Is dúnfaidh an domhan mór doirse ort, beidh drumaí doimhne ag greasáil i do cheann. Locháin allais i do bhosa. Tiocfaidh dinglis mar thochas i mbarr do chraicinn, lagófar brí na gcnámh á bhfágáil briosc. Is le hoscailt is dúnadh chlaibín na súl, le gach ardú gréine, feicfidh tú an bhréag is an fhírinne i dteannta a chéile, ag spochadh is ag bagairt, ag réiteach is ag milleadh, ag múnlú is ag glacadh. Sásta lá i ngar dá chéile. Ar buile lá ar thóir a n-aitheantais féin. Ar meisce lá le mianta. I bhfad óna chéile lá le fuarchúis. Is beidh do thimpeallacht i bhfad ó dhúchas, i ndaille an mhearbhaill. Is cuirfidh gach barróg brí ionat, is lagófar thú le póga. Is fágfar slán leat féin. Buailfidh cumhacht a fhórsa thú ar nós lasair thintrí. Is ní bheidh tú mar a bhí tú arís go deo.

Is siúd thú, cloíte, i laige grá.

Foilsíodh an dán seo cheana sa chnuasach Cnámha Scoilte (Bobtail Books, 2023).

Is file agus scríbhneoir dátheangach í Julie Breathnach-Banwait. Tá dhá chnuasach filíochta Gaeilge foilsithe aici agus cnuasach dátheangach eile filíochta dar teideal Cnámha Scoilte. Tabhair cuairt ar a próifíl Twitter anseo.

‘A morning unlike other mornings’ by Julie Breathnach-Banwait

It will be morning, probably, and you’ll feel it in your guts, churning, making itself known, obligingly placing itself before you. And your body is yours again.

Before a breath is taken, you’ll be jaw-locked in battle and tongue-tied, twisted in the tight knot of silence. The floor will split, small earthquakes bursting and belching, creating ridges underfoot, and you’ll slip down into a world that is bright and dull, where dark and light straddle. Through the gaps in the soil you’ll breathe, gulping mouthfuls to remain alive and to compose yourself. And you’ll dangle on a cliff edge. Hung by the tips of your fingers.

And your body will be on fire. Your chest will threaten to burst. Your legs will shuffle and tingle. They’ll make you walk, they’ll make you move. And the world will shut its doors, deep drums thumping in your head. Puddles of sweat in your palms. A tickle-like itch on the tip of your skin, the bones weakened and brittle. And with each opening and closing of the eyelid, with each rising sun, you’ll see fact and fiction at war, sparring and threatening, placating and destroying, moulding and accepting. Happy on days in company. Raging on days to seek one’s own identity. Drunk on days with desire. Apart on days of indifference. And your surroundings will be far from familiar, in a blinding confusion. Each embrace will strengthen you, each kiss will weaken you. And you’ll bid farewell to yourself. The power of its force will hit like a bolt of lightning. You won’t be as you were ever again.

And there you’ll be, succumbed, to the frailty of love.

This poem was previously published in Cnámha Scoilte/Split Bones (Bobtail Books, 2023).

Julie Breathnach-Banwait is a bilingual poet and writer. She has published two collections of poetry in the Irish language and one more recent bilingual collection of prose poetry called Cnámha Scoilte/Split Bones. Visit her Twitter profile here.

Nuacht Smashing Times | Smashing Times News

Six people, three men and three women, stand in front of a raised platform with a Samaritans banner on it. The cream wall behind them holds a number of large paintings.

Recent Acting for the Future Performances

Recently, Smashing Times held a number of performances in schools in Waterford, Tipperary, and Wexford, as part of the Acting for the Future project. From 4–12 March, A Day Out by Paul Kennedy was performed in Ardscoil na Mara, Tramore, Waterford; St Angela’s Ursuline, Waterford; Loreto Secondary School, Clonmel, Tipperary; St Peter’s College, Wexford; St Paul’s Community College, Waterford; and Newtown School, Waterford. Each performance of the show, which is directed by Bairbre Ní Chaoimh, was followed by a post-show discussion facilitated by Carmen Ortiz Victorino. Panel members were counselling psychologist Eimear Burke and members of Samaritans Waterford and South East. Learn more about the Acting for the Future project here.

A maroon graphic displaying the text 10 We Admire in white.

Deichniúr Thar Barr | 10 We Admire

Le haghaidh Deichniúr Thar Barr na míosa seo, dírímid ar mhná iontacha Éireannacha a chuir go mór le ceol, litríocht, agus siamsaíocht chomhaimseartha na Gaeilge.

For this month’s 10 We Admire, we shine a spotlight on remarkable Irish women who have made significant contributions to contemporary Irish-language music, literature, and entertainment.

Lasairfhíona Ní Chonaola

Amhránaí is cumadóir Éireannach is í Lasairfhíona Ní Chonaola a chanann go príomha i nGaeilge. Rugadh í ar Inis Oírr, an ceann is lú de na hOileáin Árann. Tógadh í i dtimpeallacht Ghaeilge, tumtha i dtraidisiún amhránaíochta an tsean-nóis, agus tá nasc domhain lena hoidhreacht chultúrtha mar shaintréith ag a cuid ealaíne. In 2002, d’eisigh sí a céad albam, An Raicín Álainn, a fuair moladh tapaidh ó na léirmheastóirí. Óstáladh léirithe Ní Chonaola ag ionaid mhóra ar nós an Cheolárais Náisiúnta i mBaile Átha Cliath agus Féile Snagcheoil Montreux san Eilvéis. Trína cuid ceoil, leanann Ní Chonaola uirthi ag mealladh lucht éisteachta, ag caomhnú agus ag cur chun cinn oidhreachta saibhre ceoil na hÉireann.

Lasairfhíona Ní Chonaola is an Irish singer-songwriter who sings primarily in the Irish language. She was born on Inisheer, the smallest of the Aran Islands. Raised in an Irish-speaking environment and immersed in the sean-nós singing tradition, her art is characterised by a profound connection to her cultural heritage. In 2002, she released her debut album, An Raicín Álainn, which swiftly garnered critical acclaim. Ní Chonaola’s performances have graced prestigious venues such as the National Concert Hall in Dublin and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Through her music, Ní Chonaola continues to enchant listeners, preserving, and promoting the rich musical heritage of Ireland.

Brenda Ní Shúilleabháin

Is scéalaí dátheangach ildánach í Brenda Ní Shúilleabháin, as Ceann Trá, Ciarraí, atá aitheanta as an méid a chuireann sí le cláir fhaisnéise agus litríochta araon. Trí shaothair spéisiúla cosúil leis an gclár faisnéise Do Mhargadh Déanta, rialaíonn sí meáin éagsúla go sciliúil, ag fíodóireacht scéalta léargasacha a théann i bhfeidhm go mór ar an lucht féachana. Sáraíonn cumas scéalaíochta Ní Shúilleabháin teorainneacha traidisiúnta, ag tabhairt léargais éagsúla ar chultúr agus ar shochaí na hÉireann. Ina theannta sin, tá a tiomantas do chaomhnú staire agus traidisiún béil ina dhroichead ríthábhachtach d’oidhreacht shaibhir chultúrtha na hÉireann.

Brenda Ní Shúilleabháin, from Ventry, Kerry, is a versatile bilingual storyteller, recognised for her captivating contributions to both documentaries and literature. Through engaging works like the documentary Do Mhargadh Déanta, she skilfully controls diverse media, weaving insightful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. Ní Shúilleabháin’s storytelling prowess transcends traditional boundaries, providing different insights into Irish culture and society. Moreover, her commitment to preserving oral history and tradition serves as a vital bridge to Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.

Biddy Jenkinson

Is file, gearrscéalaí, agus drámadóir í Biddy Jenkinson (ainm cleite) a scríobhann i nGaeilge. Rugadh i mBaile Átha Cliath í, agus tá roinnt cnuasach dánta foilsithe aici, ina measc Amhras Neimhe (1997) agus Oíche Bhealtaine(2005), chomh maith le gearrscéalta agus drámaí. Tá suim mhór aici sa traidisiún liteartha; tá sé ráite go bhféachann a cuid oibre le domhan sacrach an dúlra a athchruthú agus le ról na mban ina chothú. Tá sí i gcoinne an áiteamh go ndéanfaí gach rud scríofa i nGaeilge a aistriú láithreach go Béarla. Tá moltaí faighte ag a saothar as a paisean, greann, agus éagsúlacht. Bhí sí ina heagarthóir ar Poetry Ireland Review Éigse Éireann ó 2000 go 2001.

Biddy Jenkinson (pseudonym) is a poet, short story writer, and dramatist who writes in the Irish language. Born in Dublin, she has published several collections of verse, including Amhras Neimhe (1997) and Oíche Bhealtaine(2005), as well as short stories and plays. She has a deep interest in literary tradition; it has been said that her work seeks to recreate a sense of the sacral world of nature and women’s role in sustaining it. She has expressed her opposition to ‘the insistence that everything written in Irish be translated immediately into English’ (we hope that she forgives us this translation!) Her work has been praised for its passion, humour, and variety. She was editor of Éigse Éireann’s Poetry Ireland Review from 2000 to 2001.

Bríd Ní Neachtain

Is as ceantar pictiúrtha Rosmuc i gConamara do Bhríd Ní Neachtain, á ceiliúradh as a páirt i ndráma íocónach Brian Friel, Dancing at Lughnasa. Cuireadh tús lena haistear ealaíne in Amharclann na Mainistreach i mBaile Átha Cliath, áit ar mhaisigh sí a ceird, sula ndeachaigh sí isteach i saol na teilifíse agus na pictiúrlainne. Taispeánann léirithe Ní Neachtain an nasc domhain atá aici le hoidhreacht, cultúr, agus teanga na hÉireann. Ó na blianta foirmiúla a bhí aici ar stáitse Amharclann na Mainistreach go dtí a gairm bheatha ar an scáileán, leanann sí uirthi ag mealladh lucht féachana lena cuid tallainne, ilchumais, agus barántúlachta.

Bríd Ní Neachtain, celebrated for her role in Brian Friel’s iconic play Dancing at Lughnasa, hails from the picturesque region of Rosmuc in Connemara. Her artistic journey commenced at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, where she honed her craft, before going into the realms of television and cinema. Ní Neachtain’s performances reflect her profound connection to Irish heritage, culture, and language. From her formative years on the stages of the Abbey Theatre to her career on screen, she continues to captivate viewers with her remarkable talent, versatility, and authenticity.

Clíona Ní Chiosáin

Pearsa ildánach i dtionscal siamsaíochta na hÉireann, tháinig Clíona Ní Chiosáin chun suntais trína róil in Aifric TG4 agus Home School Hub RTÉ. Síneann a buanna ilghnéitheacha níos faide ná an aisteoireacht chun léiriú teilifíse agus teagasc a áireamh. Léiríonn a rannpháirtíocht i léiriúcháin agus i gcláir raidió Ghaeilge a tiomantas do chur chun cinn teanga agus cultúr na Gaeilge. Cé acu ar an scáileán, taobh thiar den mhicreafón, nó sa seomra ranga atá sí, déanann Ní Chiosáin a dícheall go seasta le lucht féachana agus foghlaimeoirí araon a mhealladh, rud a fhágann tionchar buan ar thírdhreach cultúrtha na hÉireann.

A versatile figure in the Irish entertainment industry, Clíona Ní Chiosáin rose to prominence through her roles in TG4’s Aifric and RTÉ’s Home School Hub. Her diverse talents extend beyond acting to include television presenting and teaching. Her involvement in Irish-language productions and radio programs underscores her commitment to promoting Irish language and culture. Whether on screen, behind the mic, or in the classroom, Ní Chiosáin consistently strives to engage audiences and learners alike, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Ireland.

The high cliffs of the prehistoric hill fort of Dún Aonghusa on the Aran Island of Inishmore, Galway. Below, the sea is electric blue and foamy near the shore, while further out is a very dark blue.

Dún Aonghasa ar Árainn, Gaillimh. Grianghrafadóir: Conor Luddy

Sibéal Ní Chasaide

Is amhránaí Éireannach as Gaeltacht Ráth Chairn, Contae na Mí, í Sibéal Ní Chasaide, a bhfuil aithne uirthi mar Sibéal. Tá sainfheidhm aici i stíl amhránaíochta sean-nóis na hÉireann, stíl atá ann leis na céadta bliain. Tá aithne uirthi as ‘Mise Éire’ a chanadh leis an gcumadóir Patrick Cassidy, a chum ceol do dhán Phádraig Mhic Phiarais den ainm céanna, ag comóradh oifigiúil an rialtais ar Éirí Amach 1916. Ó shin i leith, tá seinnte ag Sibéal ar fud na hÉireann, na Ríochta Aontaithe, agus na Stát Aontaithe. In 2019, d’eisigh sí a céad albam iomlán, Sibéal. Rinne an Irish Independent cur síos uirthi mar ‘bean óg Éire Nua’. Go cinnte, tá Sibéal ag teacht chun cinn mar réalta i dtionscal an cheoil in Éirinn, agus í ag clúdach dánta agus amhráin Ghaeilge ina stíl úr bhríomhar.

Sibéal Ní Chasaide, known mononymously as Sibéal, is an Irish singer from the Ráth Chairn Gaeltacht, County Meath, who specialises in the centuries-old melismatic Irish singing style of sean-nós. She is best known for singing ‘Mise Éire’ by composer Patrick Cassidy, who composed music to Patrick Pearse’s poem of the same name, at the official government commemorations of the 1916 Rising. Since then, Sibéal has performed across Ireland, the UK, and the United State. In 2019, she released her first full-length album, Sibéal. Described as ‘the young woman of a new Ireland’ by the Irish Independent, Sibéal is a rising star in the Irish music industry, covering Irish-language poems and songs in her vibrant new style.

Doireann Ní Ghríofa

Scríobhann Doireann Ní Ghríofa filíocht agus prós, trí Ghaeilge agus trí Bhéarla. Is as an gClár ó dhúchas di, agus i measc na ngradam atá buaite aici tá Lannan Literary Fellowship (Stáit Aontaithe Mheiriceá, 2018), Ostana Prize (an Iodáil, 2018), agus eile. I measc a cuid cnuasach filíochta Gaeilge tá Résheoid (2011) agus Oighear (2017). Is é A Ghost in the Throat (2020), saothar hibrideach uathfhicsin, scoláireachta, agus aistriúcháin liteartha, a céad leabhar próis. Scríobhadh den chuid is mó é agus í ina suí ina carr ar dhíon carrchlós ilstóir i mBaile an Chollaigh, tar éis di a hiníon a thabhairt chuig naíolann. Déanann A Ghost in the Throat dhá scéal chomhlántacha a fhí le chéile: caidreamh an scéalaí féin leis an toircheas agus an máithreachas, agus saol an fhile Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill san ochtú haois déag. I measc gradam an leabhair bhí Leabhar na Bliana ag Gradaim Leabhair Éireann An Post, agus Duais James Tait Black don bheathaisnéis.

Doireann Ní Ghríofa writes poetry and prose, through both Irish and English. Originally from Clare, her awards include a Lannan Literary Fellowship (USA, 2018), the Ostana Prize (Italy, 2018), and others. Her Irish language poetry collections include Résheoid (2011) and Oighear (2017). A Ghost in the Throat (2020), a hybrid work of autofiction, scholarship, and literary translation, is her first book of prose. It was largely written as she sat in her car on the roof of a multi-storey car park in Ballincollig, after dropping her daughter to crèche. A Ghost in the Throat weaves together two complementary stories: the narrator’s own relationship with pregnancy and motherhood, and the life of eighteenth-century poet Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill. Among its many awards were Book of the Year at the An Post Irish Book of the Year awards, and the James Tait Black Prize for biography.

Carrie Crowley

Déantar ceiliúradh ar Charrie Crowley as a buanna ilghnéitheacha san aisteoireacht, sa léiriú, agus as a líofacht sa Ghaeilge. Rugadh agus tógadh i bPort Láirge í, agus tá sí tar éis dul i bhfiehdm go mór ar theilifís agus scannán na hÉireann, a héachtaí suntasacha ag réimsiú ó chomhláithriú an Eurovision Song Contest in 1997 go róil i sraitheanna móréilimh mar Vikings agus Fair City. Léiríonn gairm bheatha Crowley a solúbthacht thar seánraí éagsúla, agus tá a nasc domhain-fhréamhaithe lena hoidhreacht Éireannach le feiceáil i ngach ról a ghlacann sí, bíodh sé ar an scáileán nó os comhair lucht féachana beo. Léiríonn cumas Crowley carachtair a chuimsiú agus lucht féachana a mhealladh a paisean don scéalaíocht agus a tiomantas do léirithe speisialta a théann i bhfeidhm go mór ar dhaoine.

Carrie Crowley is celebrated for her multifaceted talents in acting, presenting, and fluency in the Irish language. Born and raised in Waterford, she has made a lasting impression on Irish television and film, with notable achievements ranging from co-presenting the Eurovision Song Contest in 1997 to roles in popular series like Vikings and Fair City. Crowley’s career showcases her versatility across diverse genres, while her deep-rooted connection to her Irish heritage is evident in each role she takes on, whether on screen or in front of a live audience. Crowley’s ability to seamlessly embody characters and engage viewers reflects her passion for storytelling and her commitment to delivering memorable performances that resonate with audiences.

Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh

Léiritheoir mór le rá ar an sean-nós, is amhránaí agus ceoltóir traidisiúnta as Corca Dhuibhne, Iarthar Chiarraí í Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh. Bhí a hóige tumtha i dtimpeallacht shaibhir chultúrtha, a bhí le dul i bhfeidhm go mór ar bhunús a fuaime sainiúla gutha agus uirlise. Tá gairmréim rathúil ag Muireann mar ealaíontóir camchuairte, le breis agus trí bliana déag de thaithí mar phríomhamhránaí agus mar fheadóg mhór leis an an ngrúpa traidisiúnta Danú, chomh maith le blianta fada ag feidhmiú mar ealaíontóir aonair. Is láithreoir teilifíse agus raidió móréilimh í Muireann freisin, agus í ina hóstach ar raon clár do theilifís na hÉireann agus na hAlban le 15 bliana anuas. Le déanaí, thaifead Muireann Róisín ReImagined, albam d’amhráin sean-nóis a chuir cóiritheoirí comhaimseartha Éireannacha le chéile le Ceolfhoireann Aireagail na hÉireann.

A leading exponent of the sean-nós style, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh is an award-winning traditional singer and musician from Corca Dhuibhne, West Kerry. Her childhood saw her immersed in a rich cultural environment, which was to be hugely influential on the foundation of her distinctive vocal and instrumental sound. Muireann has enjoyed a successful career as a touring artist, with over thirteen years’ experience as lead singer and flute player with the Irish traditional supergroup Danú, as well as a many years performing as a solo artist. Muireann is also a popular television and radio presenter, having hosted a range of programmes for Irish and Scottish TV over the past 15 years. Most recently, Muireann recorded Róisín ReImagined, an album of sean-nós songs put together by contemporary Irish arrangers with the Irish Chamber Orchestra.

Nuala Hayes

Is tallann uathúil i dtaibhiú na hÉireann agus i gcaomhnú cultúir í Nuala Hayes. Ceiliúrtha as a léirithe mealltacha atá fréamhaithe i mbéaloideas na hÉireann, ní hamháin gur aisteoir agus scéalaí cumasach í ach craoltóir tiomnaithe freisin. Mar bhunaitheoir Scéalta Shamhna, tá sí tar éis tacú go díograiseach le caomhnú na scéalaíochta mar thraidisiún cultúrtha ríthábhachtach. Téann tiomantas Hayes thar an stáitse, agus í ag baint leasa as ardáin chraolacháin chun oidhreacht shaibhir na hÉireann a roinnt le lucht féachana níos leithne. Cuireann a cuid oibre ní hamháin siamsaíocht ar fáil ach oideachas freisin, ag cothú measa níos doimhne ar chultúr na hÉireann.

Nuala Hayes shines as a unique talent in Irish performance and cultural preservation. Celebrated for her captivating performances rooted in Irish folklore, she is not only an accomplished actor and storyteller but also a dedicated broadcaster. As the founder of Scéalta Shamhna, she has passionately advocated for the preservation of storytelling as a vital cultural tradition. Hayes’ commitment extends beyond the stage, as she utilises broadcasting platforms to share Ireland’s rich heritage with broader audiences. Her work serves not only to entertain but also to educate, promoting a deeper appreciation for Irish culture.

Nuacht ón nGréasán | News From the Network

Roma Education Programme wins EURORESO Award

We are pleased to announce that the winner of the 2023 EURORESO Award is Cairde’s Roma Education Programme. The topic for this year’s award, which was run by EURORESO, an international non-profit association with a scientific and educational purpose, was ‘New skills for a better future’. The award sought projects and initiatives that help people acquire new skills for quality jobs; that foster skills development for more sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and fair societies; and which are innovative and use new technologies.

The winning project, the Roma Education Programme, was established by Cairde in 2021, and is funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth. The programme supports Roma in accessing online classes in English language, literacy, computers, general studies on social and cultural topics, yoga, and mindfulness. Participants also have the opportunity to attend workshops on health topics including diabetes, mental health, cardiovascular health, and nutrition. The Roma Education Programme has been designed and implemented to support participants in acquiring skills applicable to their daily lives in Ireland, thereby facilitating their inclusion in Irish society. This includes efforts to improve their employability and boost confidence in applying for and accessing job opportunities. Please click here for a video with more information on the project, and here for Cairde’s website.

Cairde is a community development organisation working to tackle health inequalities among minority ethnic communities by improving their access to health services and their participation in health planning and delivery. They will receive the award at the EURORESO General Assembly in Belgrade, Serbia, on 23 April.

Webinar: Fostering Emotional Intelligence in the Hybrid Workplace

This webinar by The Wheel, Ireland’s national association of charities, community groups, and social enterprises, delves into the intricate dynamics shaped by emotional intelligence deficits, showing how they can significantly influence individual and collective success in a hybrid workplace. The webinar will dissect the consequences of low emotional intelligence, offering valuable insights and practical solutions for organisations aiming to thrive in this new era of work.

Highlights include understanding the link between emotional intelligence and hybrid-work effectiveness; exploring the tangible consequences of low emotional intelligence; practical strategies for enhancing emotional intelligence in a hybrid environment; and fostering a workplace culture that prioritises emotional intelligence for improved collaboration and productivity.

This webinar, facilitated by Dermot Dennehy, takes place from 10–11am on Friday, 5 April, 2024. For more information and booking, please click here.

The hashtag 'Remember Slavery' is written over an image of a statue of a seated man holding a scroll, covered in red paint. Behind the statue are railings and luxuriant greenery.

EUROM Initiatives to Remember Slavery and Stop Racism

In 1979, the General Assembly of the United Nations established a week of solidarity with peoples struggling against racism and racial discrimination, commencing on March 21. This date holds significance as, in 1960, police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people during a peaceful demonstration against apartheid ‘pass laws’.

Furthermore, the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade was observed on March 25. On that date in 1807, the United Kingdom passed the Act of Parliament, abolishing the British slave trade and marking the culmination of one of the earliest and most successful public campaigns in the country’s history. Since the adoption of the EU Anti-Racism Action Plan 2020–2025, the European Network Against Racism organises the Anti-Racism and Diversity Week to coincide with those dates.

This year, the European Observatory on Memories (EUROM) – a transnational network of institutions and organisations committed to the analysis and promotion of public policies on memory – joins these milestones by sharing the principal findings of the second report elaborated by our team within the framework of our participation in the Trans-Atlantic Racial Redress Network. The study delineates 46 initiatives for the reparation of colonialism and the slave trade in Spain across six categories. For more information, and to read the report, please click here. To visit the EUROM’s website, click here.

Webinar: Creating a Funding Plan for Your Organisation

Finding sufficient funding is often the biggest headache for those running non-profit organisations. If you need some inspiration and motivation to figure out where to look for your next funding stream, then this short introductory webinar provided by The Wheel is for you.

Learning outcomes include understanding the types of funding available; understanding your funding needs and what you can offer; tools for analysing funding opportunities; and a 10 step guide to financial sustainability.

Facilitated by Emma Murtagh, this webinar will be held from 10–11am on Friday, 26 April, 2024. Click here for more information and to book.

Deontais agus Deiseanna | Grants and Opportunities

A black-and-white image of person on a silver Apple laptop, their right hand on the mouse, their left raised in the foreground.

For individuals and organisations in the arts and human rights

Workshop: Planning, Printmaking, and Publishing for the People

This workshop explores the creative intersection between socially engaged planning, print, and publishing with activist Mpho Mokotso and artist Kate O’ Shea. To apply, please email Vance Lau at producer(at)create-ireland.ie with 100-200 words on why you are interested in attending this workshop, and your latest biography/1-3 lines about your professional background. The workshop date and time is 10am–4pm on 3 April. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Limerick Festivals and Events Grant Scheme

The Limerick Festivals and Events Grant Scheme 2024/2025 is open for applications. This competitive grant scheme offers the opportunity for funding under three Strands, for festivals and events taking place between 1 October, 2024 and 30 September, 2025. The deadline is 4pm on 3 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Catalyst Residency with Create & Fire Station Artists’ Studios

The Catalyst Residency, offered in partnership by Create and Fire Station Artists’ Studios (FSAS), offers a socially engaged artist from an under-represented ethnic background a one-month residency in Dublin 1 during June 2024. The deadline is 8 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Ink Marbling Workshop with Annie Laing

This workshop with visual artist Annie Laing will explore water marbling. Annie will guide you through the process of floating and manipulating ink pigments on water. The cost is €8 and no previous experience is required. The workshop date and time is 2.30–4pm on 13 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Artist Mentoring Award 2024 (AIC)

The Artist Mentoring Award sits within a suite of offerings under the Artist in the Community Scheme (AIC). It aims to offer capacity building and arts practice development for collaborative, socially engaged artists. There will be five artist mentors and five artist mentees. The deadline is 5pm on 13 May, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Job Opportunities and Tenders

Art Studio Manager with Alternative Experiences

Alternative Experiences is seeking an art studio manager. They are looking for a person who is outgoing, organised, and reliable to join their vibrant team. The ideal candidate will have excellent customer service skills, can manage and lead a team, can work in a busy environment, and also be able to have the craic. The deadline is 3 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Development Coordinator with Galway Community Circus

Galway Community Circus seeks to appoint a Development Coordinator to support the development and implementation of their fundraising strategy, increase income generation, and diversify funding streams to help them deliver upon their artistic ambitions across an exciting portfolio of programmes and partnerships. The deadline to apply is 5pm on 8 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

IMMA: Open Call

The Irish Museum of Modern Art invites applications from interested artists, collectives and community groups through their Open Call: Earth Rising 2024. The climate crisis represents one of the greatest challenges of our time, requiring collective efforts to mitigate its impacts and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. The deadline is 5pm on 12 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Trinny London: Make-Up Artist

Are you ready to rethink your routine? Trinny London is looking for a Full-Time Make-Up Artist to join their sparkling new Dublin team (coming soon). A Trinny London Artist is the true heart of where everything happens. The deadline is 15 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

Artists Care Exchange Facilitator with Age & Opportunity

Age & Opportunity is seeking tenders from key individuals with an interest and background in the arts and older people in a care context, to act as facilitator for the third iteration of the Artists Care Exchange (ACE), an Age & Opportunity Arts initiative. They wish to appoint a facilitator from September to December 2024, with some additional work in the recruitment of participants in June/July. The deadline is 5pm on 19 April, 2024. Apply via our Grants and Opportunities page.

For even more grants and opportunities, please visit our Grants and Opportunities page.

Sin an méid. Agus muid ag athrú anois go dtí dáta seachadta tús na míosa, foilseofar an chéad eagrán eile den nuachtlitir ar Déardaoin, 2 Bealtaine. ‘Ealaíontóirí i gCoinne an Fhaisisteachais’ a bheidh mar théama. Coinnigh súil ar ár suíomh gréasáin agus ar ár meáin shóisialta le haghaidh tuilleadh eolais ar aighneachtaí ealaíne agus míreanna nuachta.

That’s all for now. As we are now switching to a start-of-month delivery date, the next edition of the newsletter will appear on Thursday, 2 May. The theme will be ‘Artists Against Fascism’. Please keep an eye on our website and social media for more information on artist and news item submissions.

Beir bua agus beannacht,

Féilim Ó Brádaigh agus Carmen Ortiz Victorino